Integrating evidence-based imaging into the radiology core clerkship: a proposed teaching tool of imaging strategies

Purpose: Despite an increasing emphasis on incorporating evidence-based practice into medical student education curricula, no previous work has specifically addressed the incorporation of evidence-based imaging strategies into a radiology clerkship. The authors therefore introduced an evidence-based imaging curriculum during the required radiology core clerkship at their institution and then formally evaluated the sessions.

Methods: From March 2007 to March 2008, 150 students in the radiology core clerkship underwent a didactic session on the principles of evidence-based imaging and then participated in a small-group case-based session. At the end of the clinical rotation, students evaluated the exercise for its effectiveness in teaching imaging strategies and its impact on their future careers.

Results: Of the 134 students (89%) who responded, 119 (89%) felt challenged to think differently about radiology as a result of these sessions, 129 (96%) believed that they had a better understanding of the indications for certain imaging tests than before the experience, and 119 (89%) were certain that they would use this information later in their careers. The majority, 86 of 134 (64%), preferred the interactive small-group session over a didactic session. Students praised the opportunity to work in teams, work on common clinical scenarios, and gain some awareness of the costs of different imaging tests. A minority of students cited concern for the high volume of information presented per session and a preference to cover more scenarios per session.

Conclusion: An evidence-based imaging curriculum was comfortably integrated into a required radiology clerkship and was well received by students.